Racing Club de Lens is a French professional football club that has a long history and proud tradition of excellence. Founded in 1906 in the city of Lens in the Pas-de-Calais department, the club has grown to become one of the most successful teams in the country.
Their nickname, les sang et or (the blood and gold), comes from their traditional colours of red and gold and their traditional rivals are their northern neighbours Lille.
RC Lens have a proud history of success in the French league, winning the Ligue 1 title in 1998 and the Coupe de France twice in 1998 and 2000. They have also competed in the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Cup, reaching the quarter-finals of the latter in the 2003-04 season.
With a passionate fan base, Racing Club de Lens promises to continue to be a force in French football for many years to come.
1. Raphaël Varane
Defender
Career
- 2000–2002: Hellemmes
- 2002–2010: Lens
- 2010–2011: Lens
- 2011–2021: Real Madrid
- 2021: Manchester United
- 2010: France U18
- 2012: France U20
- 2011–2012: France U21
- 2013–2022: France
Varane is a world-class central defender who has been capped by France at the youth level and senior levels. He joined Manchester United in January 2019, signing a five-year contract with the club.
Varane made his debut for Real Madrid in October 2011 against Racing Santander and went on to make 236 appearances for the La Liga side before moving to Manchester United in January 2019.
Varane is known for his powerful shot from distance as well as his temperament on the pitch, which has seen him labeled one of Europe's best defenders.
He was named Ligue 1 Player of the Year twice (2013–14, 2014–15) and helped lead Real Madrid to their tenth European Cup in May 2017 after beating Atlético Madrid 4–1 in the final held at Berlin’s Olympiastadion stadium.
Varane was also part of France’s team that won UEFA EURO 2016 where they reached the semi-finals before losing 2-1 to Portugal; he started all three matches.
France’s campaign included their opening match against Romania which ended 0-0 but finished with two assists – one setting up Karim Benzema’s opener and another helping Antoine Griezmann score a late consolation goal.
Varane made 91 appearances for Les Bleus between U16 & U21 levels winning both tournaments he played in (the Toulon Tournament 2007 & 2009). In total he amassed 97 caps scoring 3 goals - all coming whilst playing at Lens.
Prior to joining United, Varane spent four seasons with French champions Paris Saint Germain where he won back-to-back titles (2012/13& 2013/14), Ligue 1 MVP awards (2013/14) Etc.
Being runner up once more behind Zlatan Ibrahimovic following PSG's victory over Monaco.
At the international level, Varane has appeared 79 times representing his country scoring 5 goals making him an integral member of Les Blues' defense.
Also Played For: real madrid, football manager 2022
2. Alphonse Areola
Goalkeeper
Career
- 1999–2006: Petits Anges
- 2006–2012: Paris Saint-Germain
- 2008–2009: INF Clairefontaine (loan)
- 2010–2013: Paris Saint-Germain B
- 2013–2022: Paris Saint-Germain
- 2013–2014: Lens (loan)
- 2014–2015: Bastia (loan)
- 2015–2016: Villarreal (loan)
- 2019–2020: Real Madrid (loan)
- 2020–2021: Fulham (loan)
- 2021–2022: West Ham United (loan)
- 2022: West Ham United
- 2008–2009: France U16
- 2009–2010: France U17
- 2010–2011: France U18
- 2011–2012: France U19
- 2012–2013: France U20
- 2013–2014: France U21
- 2018: France
Alphonse Areola is a French goalkeeper who currently plays for West Ham United. Alphonse Areola made his debut for Paris Saint-Germain in 2013 and has since played 75 games for the club.
Alphonse Areola is 1.95 meters tall and has been capped by France at the youth level. In December 2018, it was announced that Alphonso would be out of action for six months after undergoing surgery on an ankle injury he sustained earlier in the season.
With West Ham struggling this season, many fans have called on manager Manuel Pellegrini to give younger players a chance but so far there's been no sign of that happening with Areola still playing regularly.
The jury is still out on whether or not Alpheus will ever be considered one of the best goalkeepers in world football but he has already achieved success with PSG where they have won multiple Ligue 1 titles.
Champions League appearances including being runners-up last year to Liverpool If rumors are true then PSG could sell him this summer as they prepare to build their squad around Kylian Mbappe and Neymar Jr which may mean less playing time for Alpheus next season.
Also Played For: fifa u-20 world cup, west ham united f.c.
3. Serge Aurier
Career
- 2006–2009: Lens
- 2009–2011: Lens II
- 2009–2012: Lens
- 2012–2015: Toulouse
- 2014–2015: Paris Saint-Germain (loan)
- 2013: Toulouse II
- 2015–2017: Paris Saint-Germain
- 2016: Paris Saint-Germain B
- 2017–2021: Tottenham Hotspur
- 2021–2022: Villarreal
- 2022: Nottingham Forest
- 2013: Ivory Coast
Serge Aurier was born in Ouragahio, Ivory Coast on December 24th 1992. He began his career with Lens before joining Toulouse in 2012.
Serge Aurier made his Premier League debut for Tottenham Hotspur in 2020 and is currently a part of Nottingham Forest's squad.
Serge Aurier has played 72 times for Toulouse and scored 8 goals throughout his professional career thus far.
The 30-year-old defender is known for his pace, skillful passing ability, and tenacity on the pitch which have seen him become a regular starter for both club and country over the past few years Serge Aurier is a French international footballer who plays as a defender for Paris Saint-Germain and the Ivory Coast national team.
Aurier started his career at Toulouse II, before joining PSG in 2015. He has since made over 100 appearances for PSG, winning two Ligue 1 titles and the Coupe de France with them in 2017.
In November 2022 he was called up to the Ivorian national team for their Africa Cup of Nations campaign, where they reached the final but were beaten by Guinea.
Serge Aurier is an imposing figure on the pitch, known for his ball-winning abilities and strong shot from distance; he's also been praised for his leadership qualities within both club and country teams alike.
With plenty of years ahead of him still playing at top level football, it's safe to say that Serge Aurier will continue to be a force to be reckoned with on both fronts - domestically and internationally.
Also Played For: nottingham forest f.c, ivory coast
4. Thorgan Hazard
Midfielder
Career
- 1998–2003: Royal Stade Brainois
- 2003–2007: A.F.C. Tubize
- 2007–2011: Lens
- 2011–2012: Lens
- 2012–2015: Chelsea
- 2012–2014: Zulte Waregem (loan)
- 2014–2015: Borussia Mönchengladbach (loan)
- 2015–2019: Borussia Mönchengladbach
- 2019: Borussia Dortmund
- 2008: Belgium U15
- 2008–2009: Belgium U16
- 2008–2010: Belgium U17
- 2010: Belgium U18
- 2010–2012: Belgium U19
- 2012–2014: Belgium U21
- 2013: Belgium
Hazard is a Belgian international footballer who plays for Borussia Dortmund. Hazard was born in La Louvière, Belgium in 1993 and started his career with Royal Stade Brainois before joining A.F.C Tubize in 2007.
Chelsea signed Hazard from Lens in 2012 and he made 14 appearances for the club before moving to Borussia Dortmund in January 2021.
Hazard has been capped 10 times by Belgium and is often deployed as an attacking midfielder or winger on the left side of midfield.
He has been praised for his ball control, dribbling ability, passing range, creativity and goalscoring potential both at club level and internationally.
Thorgan Hazard is a midfielder for Borussia Mönchengladbach and Belgium. He has loan spells at Zulte Waregem in 2012-2014 and Borussia Mönchengladbach from 2014-2015.
In 2015, he joined Borussia Dortmund on a permanent basis before his international retirement in 2019.
At the international level, Thorgan Hazard has represented Belgium since 2008 including World Cup appearances in 2018 and Russia this year as part of their team.
Also Played For: psv, borussia dortmund
5. Seko Fofana
RC Lens
Career
- 2004–2010: Paris FC
- 2010–2013: Lorient
- 2013–2014: Manchester City
- 2014–2016: Manchester City
- 2014–2015: Fulham (loan)
- 2015–2016: Bastia (loan)
- 2016–2020: Udinese
- 2020: Lens
- 2010–2011: France U16
- 2011–2012: France U17
- 2012–2013: France U18
- 2013: France U19
- 2017: Ivory Coast
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:44, 18 September 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 23
Seko Fofana is a French midfielder who currently plays for Lens. He started his career at Paris FC and later played for Lorient before joining Lens in the summer of 2018.
Fofana has represented France at both U19 and U21 level, but he is yet to make an appearance for the senior team. In terms of style, Seko is typically deployed as a central or attacking midfielder, and is known for his quick feet and passing ability.
With eight appearances in all competitions so far this season, it's clear that Fofana has established himself as one of Lens' key players on the pitch - look out for him during the remainder of the campaign.
Seko Fofana is a French international footballer who has played for France at youth level, as well as playing in the Premier League for Manchester City.
Seko Fofana started his career with Lens before joining Udinese in 2016 where he spent two years. In 2017, Seko joined Ivory Coast and made an impact during their World Cup campaign which saw them reach the semi-finals.
Seko finished his time with Ivory Coast by being named captain of the side and helping them to qualify for their first African Nations Championship appearance since 2006.
It was announced on 9 September that Seko had signed a four year contract extension with Manchester City which will see him stay until 2020.
Despite only making 112 appearances throughout his three-decade-long career, Seko has won 13 caps for France and scored one goal.
Also Played For: africa cup of nations
6. Jean Onana
FC Girondins de Bordeaux
Career
- 2019–2020: Leixões
- 2020–2021: Lille B
- 2020–2021: Lille
- 2020–2021: Mouscron (loan)
- 2021–2022: Bordeaux
- 2022: Lens
- 2020: Cameroon
Jean Onana is a young midfielder who currently plays for Lens. Jean Onana began his career with Nkufo Academy before signing for Leixões in the Portuguese Liga in 2019.
At just 23 years old, Jean Onana has plenty of potential and looks set to have a successful future in football. With six League appearances under his belt, it's clear that Jean Onana is already making an impact at club level and could be on the rise soon.
Be sure to keep an eye out for this talented youngster as he continues to progress through the ranks - you won't regret it. Jean Onana is a Cameroonian footballer who currently plays for Lille in France.
Jean Onana has represented his country at the Africa Cup of Nations on several occasions, most notably in 2021 where he helped Cameroon reach the semi-finals.
He began his career with hometown club Lille before joining Mouscron on loan in 2020. In 2021, Jean Onana signed for Bordeaux and was part of their successful campaign to win the Ligue 1 title that year.
After completing his season with Bordeaux, Jean Onana joined Lens on a free transfer but failed to make an impact there and was released at the end of the season.
Currently playing for Lille, Jean Onana continues to represent Cameroon both domestically and internationally and looks set to have a long career ahead of him.
Also Played For: cameroon
7. Jonathan Clauss
Career
- 1998–2000: FC Osthoffen
- 2000–2010: Strasbourg
- 2010–2013: ASPV Strasbourg
- 2013–2015: SV Linx
- 2015–2016: Raon-l'Étape
- 2016–2017: Avranches II
- 2016–2017: Avranches
- 2017–2018: Quevilly-Rouen II
- 2017–2018: Quevilly-Rouen
- 2018–2020: Arminia Bielefeld
- 2020: Lens II
- 2020–2022: Lens
- 2022: Marseille
- 2022: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:28, 2 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 25 September 2022
Jonathan Clauss is a 30-year-old French international and current right back for Marseille. He began his career at hometown club Troyes before moving to Strasbourg in 2000.
In 2010, he joined Marseille where he has made over 100 appearances and won the Ligue 1 title in 2016/17.
Jonathan Clauss was born on 25 September 1992 in Troyes, France and has represented France at youth level from 1998–2000 before making his senior debut in 2010 against Ukraine national football team).
In April 2018, Jonathan Clauss was selected by Didier Deschamps for the France squad for the World Cup which they went on to win.
Outside of football, Jonathan clauss enjoys spending time with family and friends as well as playing tennis regularly Jonathan Clauss began his career with local side ASPV Strasbourg before moving to SV Linx in 2013.
He made a name for himself during the 2015–2016 season, when he led Raon-l'Étape to second place in the CFA 2nd Division.
In 2016, Jonathan signed for Avranches II and helped them earn a promotion to Ligue 1 as champions. The following year he moved on again, this time joining Quevilly-Rouen II where he spent one season before joining Marseille in 2022.
Jonathan has represented France at junior level and was part of their team that won the European Under-19 Championship in 2017 – becoming only the third player ever to win both UEFA and FIFA titles at under-19 level.
Also Played For: football right back, ligue 1
8. Adam Buksa
Forward
Career
- 2010: Hutnik Kraków
- 2010–2013: Garbarnia Kraków
- 2013: Wisła Kraków
- 2013–2014: Novara
- 2014–2016: Lechia Gdańsk
- 2014–2016: Lechia Gdańsk II
- 2016–2018: Zagłębie Lubin
- 2018: Pogoń Szczecin (loan)
- 2018–2020: Pogoń Szczecin
- 2020–2022: New England Revolution
- 2022: Lens
- 2013: Poland U17
- 2013–2014: Poland U18
- 2014–2015: Poland U19
- 2016–2019: Poland U21
- 2021: Poland
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 09:59, 21 October 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 May 2022
Adam Buksa is a Polish professional footballer who plays as a centre forward for Lens. Buksa started his career at Wisła Kraków, before joining Hutnik Kraków in 2010.
He spent three seasons with the club before joining Novara in 2013. Buksa spent two seasons with Novara before joining Lens in January 2016. He has since made over 100 appearances for the club.
Buksa has represented Poland at youth level, and has also been called up for the senior team. He is known for his goalscoring ability, and has scored 16 goals in 102 appearances for Lens. Buksa is contracted to Lens until the end of the 2020 season.
Buksa has been praised for his work-rate and tactical discipline, and is considered to be one of the club's most important players.
He is famous for his powerful shot and fast pace. Buksa is a regular selection for Poland, and has been called up for the 2018 World Cup and the 2019 European Championship.
Also Played For: new england revolution
9. Benoît Assou-Ekotto
Defender
Career
- 1994–2004: Lens
- 2004–2006: Lens
- 2006–2015: Tottenham Hotspur
- 2013–2014: Queens Park Rangers (loan)
- 2015–2016: Saint-Étienne
- 2016–2018: Metz
- 2009–2014: Cameroon
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Benoît Assou-Ekotto was born on March 24, 1984 in Arras, France. He began his career at Lens before joining Tottenham Hotspur in 2004.
He has made over 150 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur and has won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups.
He was part of the French national team that participated in the 2012 UEFA European Championship.
He is currently with AS Monaco. Benoît Assou-Ekotto is a Cameroonian international who has played for Tottenham Hotspur and Saint-Étienne in the English Premier League.
He has played 304 games for Tottenham Hotspur and Saint-Étienne and scored five goals. He joined Tottenham Hotspur from Lens in 2004 and has since made 155 appearances for the club.
He joined QPR on loan in 2013 and made 31 appearances for the club. He made his international debut for Cameroon in 2009 and has since played 23 times for the national team.
He is a versatile defender who can play at left back, centre back, or as a defensive midfielder. He has been part of the Cameroon team that has made it to the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations twice, in 2013 and 2014.
He is a popular player with the supporters of Tottenham Hotspur and Saint-Étienne, and is often called upon to lead the team out at home games.
Benoît Assou-Ekotto is a versatile defender who can play at left back, centre back, or as a defensive midfielder.
He is a popular player with the supporters of Tottenham Hotspur and Saint-Étienne, and is often called upon to lead the team out at home games.
Also Played For: spurs premier league, tottenham hotspur f.c
10. Salis Abdul Samed
Career
- 2019–2021: JMG Academy
- 2019–2021: Clermont (loan)
- 2021–2022: Clermont
- 2022: Lens
- 2022: Ghana
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:49, 14 November 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22
Salis Abdul Samed is a Ghanaian footballer who currently plays for Lens in the Ligue 1. He was born on March 26th, 2000 in Accra, Ghana. Salis Abdul Samed started his youth career at Asante Kotoko before joining Lens in 2016.
He has made 26 appearances for Lens in Ligue 1, scoring one goal. Salis Abdul Samed is a versatile midfielder who can play in either central or defensive midfield positions.
Salis Abdul Samed is a promising young midfielder with a lot of potential, and he is likely to become a key player for Lens in the future.
Salis Abdul Samed is a hard-working midfielder who is always looking to put in a good performance for his team. Salis Abdul Samed is a fast and skillful midfielder who can be a force to be reckoned with on the pitch.
Salis Abdul Samed is a promising young midfielder with a lot of potential, and he is likely to become a key player for Lens in the future.
Also Played For: ghana soccer team
11. Facundo Medina
Career
- 2018: Talleres
- 2018–2020: Talleres
- 2020: Lens
- 2018–2019: Argentina U20
- 2019–2021: Argentina U23
- 2020: Argentina
Facundo Medina was born in Villa Fiorito, Argentina on May 28th, 1999. Medina joined Lens in 2020 and has made 14 appearances for the club. Medina has played for River Plate and Talleres in his youth career.
Medina is 1.84 metres tall and is a centre-back or left-back. Medina has represented Argentina at youth level.
Facundo Medina is a Argentine footballer who currently plays for Spanish club Lens. Medina started his career with Argentine club Talleres before moving to Spanish side Lens in 2020.
Medina has been a mainstay for Argentina's U20 and U23 sides, as well as appearing for the country at the Pan American Games.
Medina has scored a single goal for Argentina in official competition. Medina is an attacking midfielder who is known for his speed and technique. Medina is a highly-rated player and is considered a key part of Argentina's future.
Medina is expected to stay with Lens for the foreseeable future. Medina is a regular for Argentina's senior side, and has been called up to the 2018 World Cup and 2019 Copa America squads. Medina is a talented player who is yet to reach his full potential.
Also Played For: argentina national football team
12. Loïs Openda
Career
- 2008–2011: Patro Othee FC
- 2011–2013: RFC Liège
- 2013–2015: Standard Liège
- 2015–2018: Club Brugge
- 2018–2022: Club Brugge
- 2020–2022: Vitesse (loan)
- 2022: Lens
- 2015: Belgium U16
- 2016–2017: Belgium U17
- 2017: Belgium U18
- 2018–2019: Belgium U19
- 2019: Belgium U21
- 2022: Belgium
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:34, 12 February 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22
Loïs Openda is a Belgian striker who currently plays for Lens. He has represented Belgium at youth levels. Openda is a tall striker with good technique and speed.
He is known for his goalscoring ability. Openda joined Patro Othee FC in 2008 and made his first-team debut in 2011. He played for RFC Liège from 2013 to 2019. Openda has represented Belgium at both under-16 and under-19 levels.
He has also played for the under-21 team. Openda has scored over 50 goals in his career, including 17 in the Ligue 1 league.
Openda is a Belgium international and has made appearances for the under-21 team. Openda is a highly rated prospect and is expected to join a top club in the near future.
Openda is a striker who is capable of scoring goals from anywhere on the pitch. Openda is a highly promising young player and is expected to improve further in the future.
Also Played For: belgium national football team
13. Geoffrey Kondogbia
Midfielder
Career
- 1999–2003: Nandy
- 2003–2004: Sénart-Moissy
- 2004–2010: Lens
- 2010–2011: Lens II
- 2010–2012: Lens
- 2012–2013: Sevilla
- 2013–2015: Monaco
- 2015–2018: Inter Milan
- 2017–2018: Valencia (loan)
- 2018–2020: Valencia
- 2020: Atlético Madrid
- 2008–2009: France U16
- 2009: France U17
- 2010–2011: France U18
- 2011–2012: France U19
- 2012–2013: France U20
- 2013–2014: France U21
- 2013–2015: France
- 2018: Central African Republic
Geoffrey Kondogbia is a French professional footballer who currently plays for Spanish club Atlético Madrid. Kondogbia made his professional debut with Lens in 2010 and went on to play for Nandy, Sénart-Moissy and Lens II before joining Atlético Madrid in 2016.
Kondogbia is known for his defensive midfield role and has represented France at youth level. Kondogbia has won two La Liga titles and a Copa del Rey with Atlético Madrid.
Kondogbia made his international debut for France in 2016. Kondogbia is the son of former professional footballer Didier Kondogbia.
Kondogbia has been married to his wife, Emilie, since 2016. Kondogbia has two children. Kondogbia is a Muslim.[4] He was born on the 13th of November, 1995.
Kondogbia is a French international footballer who plays for Valencia and the France national team. Kondogbia has played for Monaco, Inter Milan, Valencia, and Atlético Madrid.
Kondogbia has won two La Liga titles with Valencia and one with Atlético Madrid. He was called up to the France national team for the first time in 2018.
Kondogbia has also won the 2013 Confederations Cup with France. Kondogbia was born in the Central African Republic, but he has French citizenship. Kondogbia is a creative offensive midfielder who has been compared to Claude Makelele.
Geoffrey Kondogbia is a talented footballer who has won several honours with clubs in Europe.
Also Played For: atlético de madrid
14. Loïc Rémy
Forward
Career
- 1993–1999: ASPTT Lyon
- 1999–2006: Lyon
- 2006–2008: Lyon
- 2008: Lens (loan)
- 2008–2010: Nice
- 2010–2013: Marseille
- 2013–2014: Queens Park Rangers
- 2013–2014: Newcastle United (loan)
- 2014–2017: Chelsea
- 2016–2017: Crystal Palace (loan)
- 2017–2018: Las Palmas
- 2018: Getafe (loan)
- 2018–2020: Lille
- 2020–2022: Çaykur Rizespor
- 2022: Adana Demirspor
- 2023: Brest
- 2007–2008: France U21
- 2009–2014: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:42, 2 February 2023 (UTC)
Rémy is a French professional footballer who currently plays for Brest in the French Ligue 1. Rémy started his career with ASPTT Lyon and enjoyed a successful spell there, winning the Ligue 1 championship in 2006.
Rémy moved to Chelsea in 2014 and enjoyed a successful spell with them, winning the Premier League and FA Cup in his time at the club. Rémy left Chelsea in 2018 and signed for Brest. Rémy is a forward and is known for his speed and dribbling ability.
Rémy is a France international and has played for the nation at various youth levels. Rémy is a hardworking player and is known for his tactical awareness.
Rémy is a controversial player and has been involved in several controversies over the years. Rémy is a popular player with Chelsea fans and is considered to be one of the club's all-time greats.
Also Played For: olympique de marseille
15. Seydou Keita
Midfielder
Career
- 1995–1997: Centre Salif Keita
- 1997–1999: Marseille
- 1999–2000: Marseille
- 2000–2002: Lorient
- 2002–2007: Lens
- 2007–2008: Sevilla
- 2008–2012: Barcelona
- 2012–2014: Dalian Aerbin
- 2014: Valencia
- 2014–2016: Roma
- 2016–2017: El Jaish
- 1999: Mali U20
- 1998–2015: Mali
Seydou Keita is a Malian international midfielder who has played for several French clubs, most notably Marseille and Lens. He joined Sevilla in 2007 and was part of the team that won the Copa del Rey in 2008.
Keita was capped 44 times by Mali and was part of the team that reached the 2002 World Cup. In 2008, he was named in the FIFA World XI and in 2009, he was named in the African Footballer of the Year.
Keita has also played for Barcelona and is currently a free agent.
He is known for his passing ability and is a key player for his teams. Keita has been married to his wife, Amadou, for eight years and they have two children.
Keita is a devout Muslim and often wears a kufi. He is a popular figure in his homeland, Mali, and is often asked to give speeches at events.
Also Played For: mali
16. Massadio Haïdara
Career
- 2002–2003: La Verrière
- 2003–2005: Versailles
- 2005–2008: Boulogne-Billancourt
- 2008–2010: Nancy
- 2010–2013: Nancy
- 2013–2018: Newcastle United
- 2018: Lens
- 2011: France U19
- 2011–2012: France U20
- 2012: France U21
- 2019: Mali
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 17:44, 28 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 15 November 2022
Haïdara was born in Trappes, France in 1992. He started his career with La Verrière in 2002 and then moved to Versailles in 2003. In 2018, he joined Lens and has since been a regular for the team.
Haïdara is left back and is a regular for the French national team. He was part of the French team that won the 2018 World Cup. Haïdara is a versatile defender who can play anywhere on the field. He is a hard-working defender who is always looking to make a play.
Haïdara is a fast defender who is always looking to get up and down the field. He is a talented defender who is always looking to make a difference for his team. Haïdara began his career at hometown club Boulogne-Billancourt, before moving to Nancy in 2008.
He made 46 appearances for Nancy, scoring zero goals, before joining Newcastle United in 2010.
Haïdara made 39 appearances for Newcastle United, scoring zero goals, before joining Lens in 2018. He has made 116 appearances for Lens, scoring four goals.
Haïdara has represented France at U19 and U21 level, scoring four goals. He has also represented Mali at national team level, scoring one goal. Haïdara is currently with Lens in Ligue 1, where he is captain.
Haïdara is a strong midfielder, with good technique and passing ability. He is currently pushing for a place in the France national team for the 2020 World Cup.
17. El Hadji Diouf
Career
- 1998: Sochaux
- 1998–1999: Sochaux
- 1999–2000: Rennes
- 2000–2002: Lens
- 2002–2005: Liverpool
- 2004–2005: Bolton Wanderers (loan)
- 2005–2008: Bolton Wanderers
- 2008–2009: Sunderland
- 2009–2011: Blackburn Rovers
- 2011: Rangers (loan)
- 2011–2012: Doncaster Rovers
- 2012–2014: Leeds United
- 2014–2015: Sabah FA
- 2000–2008: Senegal
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Diouf is a winger and forward who has played for several clubs in his career, most notably Rennes and Sochaux. Diouf was born in Dakar, Senegal in 1981 and started playing football at a young age.
Diouf represented Senegal at youth level and made his senior debut for Sochaux in 1998. Diouf moved to Rangers in 2011 and has since made over 100 appearances for the Scottish club.
Diouf is known for his powerful striking ability and was named Scottish Football Writers' Player of the Year in 2012.
Diouf is a regular member of the Senegal national team and has represented his country at the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup. Diouf is currently with Liverpool and is rumoured to be a target for Barcelona in the future.
Diouf is married and has three children. Diouf is a popular figure in Scottish football and is often cited as an example of the African footballer who can achieve success in Europe.
Also Played For: senegal national football team, bolton wanderers f.c
18. Florian Sotoca
Grenoble Foot 38
Career
- 2012–2013: FU Narbonne
- 2013–2014: Martigues
- 2014–2015: Béziers
- 2015–2016: Montpellier B
- 2015–2016: Montpellier
- 2016–2019: Grenoble
- 2019: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 January 2023
Florian Sotoca is a striker who currently plays for Lens. He is 1.87 m tall and has played for a number of clubs, most notably Lens and Lyon. Sotoca has been capped at international level by France, and has scored a number of goals.
Florian Sotoca is a regular for Lens and has helped the club to a number of successes, most notably the Ligue 1 title in 2017. Florian Sotoca is a very versatile player, capable of playing in a number of positions, including striker.
He is a very hard-working player and is known for his determination and determination. Florian Sotoca is a very popular player with the Lens fans, and is considered to be one of the club's most important players.
Florian Sotoca is a very popular figure with the media, and is often given feedback on his performances.
Florian Sotoca is a very popular player with the fans, and is considered to be one of the most popular French players.
19. David Costa
RC Lens
Career
- 2013–2019: Lens
- 2019: Lens II
- 2020: Lens
- 2019: Portugal U18
- 2019: Portugal U19
- 2022: Portugal U21
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 4 January 2022, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 00:10, 14 June 2022
David Costa is a Portuguese winger who currently plays for Lens. Costa made his senior debut for hometown club Almada in the 2016–17 season. He has represented Portugal at under-19 and under-21 level.
Costa was named in the Portuguese squad for the 2019 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. In January 2019, Costa signed for Lille on a six-month loan. He made his Lille debut in a 2–1 Ligue 1 win over Nice on 9 January.
Costa has also represented Portugal at under-17 and under-19 level. In October 2018, Costa was named in the Portugal squad for the 2018–19 UEFA European Under-21 Championship. Costa is a regular for the Portugal under-21 side.
David Costa is a talented footballer who has played for a number of clubs domestically and internationally.
Costa has been a regular in the Portugal U21 team, and has scored a number of goals for them. Costa has been a key part of Lens' first team for the past two seasons.
Costa has also played for Portugal's U18 and U19 teams, and has impressed in both. Costa is a talented midfielder who can score goals, and is an important part of Lens' team.
Costa is likely to continue playing for Lens for the foreseeable future. Costa is a talented footballer who is likely to continue playing at a high level.
Costa is a talented midfielder who is likely to continue playing at a high level. David Costa is a talented footballer who is likely to continue playing at a high level.
20. Brice Samba
Nottingham Forest F.C.
Career
- 2001–2002: Pacy Vallée-d'Eure
- 2002–2006: Madeleine Evreux
- 2006–2011: Le Havre
- 2011–2013: Le Havre B
- 2011–2013: Le Havre
- 2013–2017: Marseille B
- 2013–2017: Marseille
- 2015–2016: Nancy B (loan)
- 2015–2016: Nancy (loan)
- 2017–2018: Caen B
- 2017–2019: Caen
- 2019–2022: Nottingham Forest
- 2022: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 January 2023
Brice Samba is a goalkeeper who currently plays for Lens. He started his career at Pacy Vallée-d'Eure. He has represented France at U19 level. He is 1.87m tall.
He made his senior debut for Lens in a Ligue 1 game in 2016. He is a Congo national. He has represented his country at U17, U20 and U23 level. He is a member of the Congo national team.
He has also played for AS Monaco, Olympique de Marseille and RC Lens. Brice Samba is a French professional footballer who plays for English club Nottingham Forest. He started his career with French side Le Havre, before moving to Marseille in 2013.
In 2017, he joined English side Nottingham Forest on a permanent deal. He has made over 125 appearances for Nottingham Forest, scoring 19 goals.
He has also played for Caen and Lens in his career. Brice Samba is a versatile player, capable of playing as a defender or midfielder.
He is a French international, having made six appearances for the national team. Brice Samba is a hard-working player, who always puts in a 100% effort. He is a passionate footballer, who loves to play in front of the fans.
21. Kevin Danso
Fortuna Düsseldorf
Career
- 2014: Milton Keynes Dons
- 2014–2016: Augsburg
- 2016–2018: Augsburg II
- 2017–2021: Augsburg
- 2019–2020: Southampton (loan)
- 2020–2021: Fortuna Düsseldorf (loan)
- 2021: Lens
- 2013: Austria U15
- 2013: Austria U16
- 2015: Austria U17
- 2015–2016: Austria U18
- 2016: Austria U19
- 2018–2020: Austria U21
- 2017: Austria
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12 February 2023, ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 25 September 2022
Danso is a young centre-back who has played for Reading and Milton Keynes Dons in the English Premier League. He has represented Austria at youth level, and was part of the team that won the 2017 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.
Danso joined Lens in the summer of 2019, and he is likely to feature prominently for the club in the 2020-21 season. Born in Austria in 1998, Kevin Danso began his professional career in his homeland with Augsburg II in the Austrian clubs league.
Danso moved to England in the summer of 2017 to join Southampton on a six-month loan deal. He made his debut for the Saints in a Premier League game against Liverpool on 19 September 2017.
Danso returned to Augsburg in January 2018, and went on to make 41 appearances for the club in all competitions.
Danso signed for Fortuna Düsseldorf on a loan deal in the summer of 2020, and made 32 appearances for the club before returning to Southampton in January 2021.
He then moved to France to join Lens on a three-year deal in January 2021. Danso has made 15 appearances for the Austria U21 side, scoring three goals.
22. Przemysław Frankowski
RC Lens
Career
- 2008–2012: Lechia Gdańsk
- 2012–2014: Lechia Gdańsk
- 2014–2019: Jagiellonia Białystok
- 2019–2021: Chicago Fire
- 2021: Lens
- 2011: Poland U16
- 2013: Poland U18
- 2013: Poland U19
- 2015: Poland U20
- 2015–2017: Poland U21
- 2018: Poland
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 23:01, 14 January 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 4 December 2022
Przemysław Frankowski is a Polish winger who currently plays for Lens. Przemysław Frankowski began his career with Lechia Gdańsk before moving to Lens in 2017.
Przemysław Frankowski is a fast, attacking winger who is known for his dribbling and passing ability. Przemysław Frankowski is a key player for Lens, who are currently in the Ligue 1 season.
Przemysław Frankowski is a Polish international and was part of the national team at the 2017 World Cup. Przemysław Frankowski is also a regular for the Polish national team at various age-group levels.
Przemysław Frankowski is a passionate player who loves to give his all on the pitch. Przemysław Frankowski is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his skills.
Przemyslaw Frankowski is one of the most promising young Polish players and is sure to continue his success in the future.
Also Played For: poland national football team, polish soccer league
23. Steven Fortés
RC Lens
Career
- 2011–2012: SCO La Cayolle
- 2012–2013: Arles-Avignon B
- 2013–2014: Arles-Avignon
- 2014–2017: Le Havre
- 2017–2019: Toulouse
- 2019: Lens (loan)
- 2019: Lens
- 2021–2022: Oostende (loan)
- 2015: Cape Verde
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12:50, 21 July 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 17
Steven Fortés is a centre-back who currently plays for Lens. Fortés has represented France at youth level and has also played for Marseille. Fortés made his professional debut in 2011 and has since played over 100 games for Lens.
Fortés is a regular in the France national team and has represented his country at both U21 and senior level.
Fortés is a versatile defender who is capable of playing at either centre-back or in midfield. Fortés is a hard-working defender who is known for his strong defensive play.
Fortés is a promising defender who is likely to have a long career in the footballing world. Fortés is a solid defender who is capable of playing in a number of different positions. Fortés is a versatile defender who is likely to have a long career in the footballing world.
24. Wesley Saïd
RC Lens
Career
- 2001–2004: Noisy-le-Grand
- 2004–2006: Villiers-sur-Marne
- 2006–2013: Rennes
- 2012–2014: Rennes B
- 2013–2017: Rennes
- 2014: Laval B (loan)
- 2014–2015: Laval (loan)
- 2015–2016: Dijon (loan)
- 2015–2016: Dijon B (loan)
- 2017–2019: Dijon
- 2019–2021: Toulouse
- 2021: Lens
- 2011: France U16
- 2011–2012: France U17
- 2012–2013: France U18
- 2013: France U19
- 2014–2015: France U20
- 2016: France U21
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 16:11, 22 August 2022 (UTC)
Wesley Saïd is a French winger who currently plays for Lens. Wesley Saïd started his career with Noisy-le-Grand before moving to Villiers-sur-Marne in 2006.
Saïd made his senior debut for Rennes in 2013. Wesley Saïd has represented France at youth level. Wesley Saïd is 1.71m tall and has scored five goals in 97 appearances for Lens.
Wesley Saïd is a French professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Laval and the France national team. Saïd first came to prominence with Rennes, where he won 26 caps and 10 league titles in three years.
He then moved to Laval, where he won another 32 league titles in four years. Saïd has also played for Dijon, Dijon B, and Lens in France's lower leagues. He has represented France at all levels, from under-16s to under-21s.
Saïd was called up to the senior team for the first time in March 2019. He made his international debut in a 1-0 friendly win over the United States. Saïd is a regular in the France national team, and is considered a key player.
He is a member of the Laval team that is currently competing in the French Ligue 1.
25. Alexis Claude Maurice
FC Lorient
Career
- 2004–2013: Torcy
- 2014–2017: Lorient
- 2015–2018: Lorient B
- 2017–2019: Lorient
- 2019: Nice
- 2022: Lens (loan)
- 2015–2016: France U18
- 2016–2017: France U19
- 2017: France U20
- 2021: France U21
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 03:47, 15 February 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 31 March 2021
Alexis Claude-Maurice is a forward who currently plays for Lens on loan from Nice. He made his professional debut with Lorient in 2019. Claude-Maurice came through the youth ranks at Lorient and made his senior debut in 2018.
He has represented France at youth level and was part of the team that competed in the UEFA U-19 Championship in 2018. Claude-Maurice is known for his pace and ability to score goals. Alexis Claude Maurice was born on 16 December 1994 in Torcy, France.
He began his footballing career with local club Torcy in 2004. In 2013, he moved to Lorient, where he played until 2017. In 2018, he joined Nice.
In 2019, he returned to Lorient. He has represented France at various youth levels. He has also represented the country at various international tournaments.
Alexis Claude Maurice is a midfielder. He has made 47 appearances for Lorient and 57 for Nice.
26. Deiver Machado
Atlético Nacional
Career
- 2013–2014: Atlético Nacional
- 2014: Alianza Petrolera (loan)
- 2015–2017: Millonarios
- 2017–2018: Gent
- 2018–2020: Atlético Nacional
- 2020–2021: Toulouse
- 2021: Lens
- 2016: Colombia Olympic
- 2018: Colombia
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:06, 19 February 2023 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 22 March 2019
Deiver Machado is a Colombian left-back who has represented Lens and the Colombian national team.
Machado made his professional debut in 2013 with Lens, and has since gone on to make over 150 appearances for the club.
Machado made his international debut for Colombia in 2016, and has since represented his country at various youth levels. Machado is a versatile player, capable of playing left-back, left winger, or as a central defender.
Machado is considered to be a promising young player, and is expected to continue developing in the near future. Machado is a hard-working player, who is always looking to contribute to his team.
Machado is a popular figure among the fans of Lens, and is considered to be one of the club's most valuable players.
Machado is expected to play a major role for Lens in the upcoming season. Machado is a promising young player, with a lot of potential to reach the top level.
27. Jimmy Cabot
ES Troyes AC
Career
- 2003–2005: FC Villargondran
- 2005–2009: Maurienne
- 2009–2013: Troyes
- 2012–2015: Troyes II
- 2013–2016: Troyes
- 2016–2020: Lorient
- 2016–2018: Lorient II
- 2020–2022: Angers
- 2022: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 21 May 2022
Jimmy Cabot was born in France in 1994 and started his youth career with Lens. He made his senior debut in the Ligue 1 in the 2011/12 season and has since played for Lorient, Rennes, Saint-Étienne and Lens.
Cabot has been capped at youth level by France and has scored five goals in 18 appearances. He made his senior international debut for France in March 2018 and has since appeared in eight matches. Cabot is a winger and is known for his pace and trickery on the pitch.
He is contracted to Lens until 2020. Cabot is a fan favourite at Lens and is often called on by the coaching staff to make an impact in matches.
He is a hard-working player and is known for his team ethic. Jimmy Cabot is a talented player and is expected to be a key player for Lens in the future.
Jimmy Cabot started his career at FC Villargondran where he played for two seasons. He then joined Maurienne, where he made 53 appearances and scored six goals.
In 2013, Jimmy Cabot joined Troyes and played for two seasons. He then signed for Lorient in 2016. He has made 126 appearances and scored twelve goals for Lorient.
Jimmy Cabot signed for Lorient II in 2016 and has made three appearances. He is currently a free agent and is looking for a new club. Jimmy Cabot is a talented player and has represented France at youth level.
He is a strong defender and is known for his composure on the pitch. Jimmy Cabot is a good passer and can dribble with the best of them.
28. Ismaël Boura
RC Lens 2
Career
- 2014–2020: Lens
- 2017–2020: Lens II
- 2020: Lens
- 2021–2022: Havre (loan)
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 14 May 2022
Ismaël Boura is a defender who currently plays for Lens in Ligue 1. He made his professional debut in 2018 and has since played over 50 matches for the club.
Boura has represented France at youth level and was part of the side that won the U20 European Championship in 2017. He is also a regular for the France U19 side and was part of the team that qualified for the U20 World Cup in 2019.
Boura is a versatile defender who can play at either left or right back. He is known for his strong defending and accurate passing. He is likely to be a key player for Lens during the 2020-21 season and is looking to help the club qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
Boura is a young player with a lot of potential and is looking to establish himself as one of the best defenders in Europe.
29. Łukasz Poręba
Zagłębie Lubin
Career
- 2018: Zagłębie Lubin
- 2018–2022: Zagłębie Lubin
- 2022: Lens
- 2018–2019: Poland U19
- 2019: Poland U20
- 2021–2022: Poland U21
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12:52, 22 September 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 17
Poręba is a young midfielder who is currently playing for Lens in the Ligue 1. He made his debut for the club in the 2015-16 season and has since played a key role in their midfield.
3. Łukasz is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions, including defensive midfield, central midfield, and even as a forward.
He has been a part of the Polish national team since early youth levels and has made several appearances for them at youth level and senior level.
5. Łukasz is a hard-working player who is always looking to contribute to the team and make an impact. He is considered to be one of the most promising young midfielders in Europe and is expected to continue to develop in the coming years.
Łukasz is a versatile player who can play in a number of positions, including defensive midfield, central midfield, and even as a forward.
He has been a part of the Polish national team since early youth levels and has made several appearances for them at youth level and senior level.
Łukasz is a hard-working player who is always looking to contribute to the team and make an impact.
30. Éric Sikora
RC Lens
Career
- 1985–2004: RC Lens
- 1986–1988: France U21
- 2005–2006: RC Lens (assistant coach)
- 2006–2012: RC Lens (assistant coach 2nd team)
- 2012–2013: RC Lens
- 2017–2018: RC Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Sikora has been a stalwart defender for Lyon since joining the club in 1993. He helped Lyon to win the French League and Cup double in 2006 and 2007 and was also part of the side which reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2005.
Sikora has also represented France at international level and made over 100 appearances. He retired from playing in 2013, but remains a key part of the Lyon squad in the role of assistant manager.
Sikora is a UEFA A Licence coach and has worked with the France national under-21 team.
He has two daughters and lives in Lyon. Sikora is one of the most popular players in Lyon history and is highly respected by teammates and fans.
He is a tough defender who is always willing to put in a shift for the team. Sikora is a great role model for younger players and has helped to foster a strong culture within the Lyon squad.
31. Jean-Louis Leca
SC Bastia
Career
- 2003–2008: Bastia
- 2008–2013: Valenciennes
- 2013–2017: Bastia
- 2017–2018: Ajaccio
- 2018: Lens
- 2009: Corsica
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 16:54, 5 July 2022 (UTC)
Jean-Louis Leca is a French goalkeeper who currently plays for Lens. Leca has played for several clubs throughout his career, most notably Bastia and Lens.
Leca is one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the French league, and has played a key role in several sides' successes. Leca is known for his strong shot-stopping abilities, and is often relied upon to keep his team in the game.
Leca is a popular figure within the Lens fanbase, and is often praised for his consistent performances. Leca is likely to feature prominently in France's Euro 2020 campaign. Leca is a regular features in the France national team, and has been a part of the side since 2012.
Leca is married, with two children. Jean-Louis Leca is a Bastia player and has played for the club since 2003.
He has played a total of 80 times for Bastia in the French league and has scored zero goals. Leca has also played for Valenciennes and Bastia's rivals Ajaccio. He has made 33 appearances for Ajaccio and 129 for Lens since joining the latter in 2018.
Leca is a French international and has represented his country on two occasions, both in Corsica.
32. Jonathan Gradit
RC Lens
Career
- 2011–2012: Bordeaux B
- 2012–2013: Bayonne
- 2013–2018: Tours B
- 2014–2018: Tours
- 2018–2019: Caen
- 2019: Caen B
- 2019: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 05:57, 6 February 2023 (UTC)
Jonathan Gradit is a centre-back who currently plays for Lens. Gradit originally played for hometown club, Talence, before joining Lens in 2013. He has made over 100 appearances for the club, including in the UEFA Europa League and Ligue 1.
Gradit has also represented France at youth level, and was part of the side that reached the semi-finals of the U-20 European Championship in 2015.
He is a versatile defender, capable of playing at either centre-back or left-back. Gradit is a hard-working player, who is adept at clearing the ball from the front-line.
He is a strong defender, who is good at clearing balls from the penalty area. Gradit is also known for his powerful shot from distance. Gradit is a regular in theLens starting XI, and is one of the club's most popular players.
33. Wuilker Faríñez
Caracas F.C.
Career
- 2011–2014: Caracas
- 2014–2017: Caracas
- 2018–2021: Millonarios
- 2020: Lens B (loan)
- 2020–2021: Lens (loan)
- 2021: Lens
- 2013: Venezuela U15
- 2015: Venezuela U17
- 2017: Venezuela U20
- 2016: Venezuela
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 22:01, 31 May 2022 (UTC)., ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 18
Wuilker Faríñez is a Venezuelan goalkeeper who currently plays for Lens. He started his career with Nueva Esparta and Gramoven before joining Lens in 2017.
He has made one appearance for Venezuela national team. Wuilker Faríñez is a versatile goalkeeper, having played as a goalkeeper, centre back and left back.
He is a highly-rated prospect and is expected to break into the first team at Lens in the near future. Wuilker Faríñez is a promising young goalkeeper who is sure to make a name for himself in the coming years.
He is a hard-working and dedicated player and is considered to be one of the best goalkeepers in the league. Wuilker Faríñez is a promising young goalkeeper who is sure to make a name for himself in the coming years.
Wuilker Faríñez is a Venezuelan international footballer who currently plays for Millonarios in the Venezuelan Primera División. Wuilker Faríñez began his career with Caracas in the Venezuelan Primera División and has made over 75 appearances for the club.
Wuilker Faríñez has also played for Millonarios in the Copa Libertadores, where the club reached the semi-finals. Wuilker Faríñez has also had loan spells with Lens and Lens B. Wuilker Faríñez is a versatile footballer who can play as a midfielder or defender.
Wuilker Faríñez is a regular member of the Venezuela national team and has made over 16 appearances. Wuilker Faríñez is expected to remain with Millonarios until the end of the 2021 season.
Wuilker Faríñez is a highly rated footballer and is considered one of the best midfielders in the Venezuelan Primera División.
Also Played For: venezuela national football team
34. Julien Le Cardinal
Career
- 2015: Guingamp
- 2015–2019: Stade Briochin
- 2019–2022: Bastia
- 2022: Paris FC
- 2022: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 02:12, 15 January 2023 (UTC)
Julien Le Cardinal is a centre-back who currently plays for Lens. Le Cardinal made his professional debut in the Ligue 1 in the 2016/2017 season. He has also played for Saint-Étienne, Angers, Tours, and Lorient.
Le Cardinal has represented France at youth level. Le Cardinal is a product of the Saint-Brieuc youth system.
Le Cardinal is a hard-working defender who is capable of making interceptions and tackles. Le Cardinal is also a good crosser of the ball.
Le Cardinal is a young player with a lot of potential. Le Cardinal is a versatile defender who can play at both centre-back and left-back.
Julien Le Cardinal is a French footballer who is currently playing for Stade Briochin. He started his career with Guingamp before joining Bastia in 2019.
He has made 74 appearances for Bastia, scoring six goals. He joined Paris FC in 2022 and made one appearance before joining Lens in 2022.
He is a central midfielder and is known for his passing ability. He is a French international and has made thirteen appearances for the national team. Julien Le Cardinal is a very experienced player, having played over fifty-two games in his career.
He is a hard-working midfielder and is known for his defensive work. Julien Le Cardinal is a very talented player and is a key part of Bastia’s midfield.
35. Adrien Thomasson
RC Strasbourg Alsace
Career
- 2012–2015: Evian
- 2012–2014: Evian II
- 2013–2014: Vannes (loan)
- 2015–2018: Nantes
- 2018–2023: Strasbourg
- 2023: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:08, 19 February 2023 (UTC)
Adrien Thomasson is a 29-year-old winger who currently plays for Lens. He has been in the french top flight for 3 seasons, and has made a total of 76 appearances.
Thomasson is known for his speed and dribbling ability. He is also capable of scoring goals, having bagged 14 times in Ligue 1. Thomasson is a former youth international, having made his debut for France in 2011.
He has represented his country at various youth levels, including the Under-21s and the Under-19s. Thomasson is a versatile player, able to play both on the left and the right wing. He is a hard-working player, who is always looking to get involved in the action.
Thomasson is a French international, having made his debut in November 2012. He has since made a total of 5 appearances for his country. Thomasson is contracted to Lens until 2020.
36. Yannick Pandor
Career
- 2007–2012: US Michelis
- 2012–2017: Marseille
- 2017–2018: SC Bel Air
- 2018: Lens B
- 2021: Lens
- 2022: Comoros U20
- 2022: Comoros
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:20, 5 August 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 19
Pandor is a young goalkeeper who first emerged onto the scene in France with US Michelis. He has since gone on to sign with Lens, and has made a number of appearances for the club in the Ligue 1.
Pandor is a promising young goalkeeper, and is likely to develop into a top-level player in the future. He is a strong character, and is known for his determination and resilience.
Pandor is a young goalkeeper with a lot of potential, and he is likely to continue to develop in the future.
Pandor is a versatile and experienced midfielder who is able to play in both the centre and on the wings.
Pandor is known for his ball control and passing ability, which has helped him make a name for himself at both club and international level. Pandor is a strong defender who is also capable of scoring goals.
Pandor is expected to feature for Lens in the upcoming Ligue 1 season. Pandor has represented France at youth level, and is now looking to establish himself in the senior team.
Pandor is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game. Pandor is a versatile player who is capable of playing in a number of different positions.
Pandor is a natural leader who will be a major asset to any team he joins. Pandor is a versatile and experienced player who is sure to make a significant impact for whichever club he joins next.
37. Adrien Louveau
Career
- 2009–2020: Lens
- 2019: Lens II
- 2020: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 1 July 2022
Adrien Louveau is a defender who currently plays for Lens II. He was born in Lille, France on 1 February 2000. He is 1.89 m (6 ft 2 in) tall and has played for Lens II since the 2016-17 season.
He has made 14 appearances for the club so far and has scored one goal. Adrien Louveau is a promising young defender and he is likely to improve further in the future. Adrien Louveau is a French professional footballer who currently plays for Lens in Ligue 1.
Adrien Louveau began his career at Lens in 2009, and went on to make over 250 appearances for the club over the course of 10 years.
In 2019, Louveau joined Lens II on a free transfer, and went on to make 24 appearances for the club. Louveau made his professional debut for Lens in a Ligue 1 game against Nice in 2009, and went on to score one goal during his 10-year career with the club.
Adrien Louveau is a versatile defender, and is capable of playing both as a centre-back and as a left-back. Louveau is a France international, having made over 20 appearances for the national team over the course of his career.
In 2020, Louveau signed with Lens for the remainder of the season, and is expected to make his Ligue 1 debut for the club in the upcoming fixtures. Adrien Louveau is a hard-working defender, and is known for his stamina, work-rate, and defensive skills.
Adrien Louveau is a popular player with the Lens supporters, and is known for his attacking flair and passing ability.
38. Franck Haise
Career
- 1988–1995: Rouen
- 1995–1997: Laval
- 1997–1999: Beauvais
- 1999–2002: Laval
- 2002–2004: Angers
- 2003–2006: Mayenne
- 2012–2013: Changé
- 2013–2015: Lorient B
- 2015–2016: Lorient (assistant)
- 2016: Lorient (caretaker)
- 2017–2020: Lens B
- 2020: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Franck Haise is a French football manager and midfielder who currently manages Lens. Haise played for Rouen and Laval in the French top flight, before joining Lens in 1995.
He helped Lens reach the semi-finals of the Coupe de France in 1998 and the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup in 2000. He left Lens in 2002, before rejoining the club in 2006. Haise was appointed manager of Lens in February 2020.
He made his first appearance for the France national team in a friendly against Germany in November 2001.
Haise retired from football in 2004, but came out of retirement to play for Lens in the 2006–07 season. Haise was part of the France squad that participated in the 2006 World Cup and the 2008 European Championship.
Haise is the son of former professional footballer Alain Haise.
39. Angelo Fulgini
RC Lens
Career
- 2002–2003: AS de Saint-Paul-en-Forêt
- 2003–2005: FC Vidauban
- 2005–2007: SC Douai
- 2007–2013: Valenciennes
- 2013–2016: Valenciennes B
- 2015–2017: Valenciennes
- 2017–2022: Angers
- 2018–2019: Angers II
- 2022: Mainz 05
- 2023: Lens (loan)
- 2012–2013: France U17
- 2013–2014: France U18
- 2014–2015: France U19
- 2015–2016: France U20
- 2017: France U21
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19 February 2023
Angelo Fulgini is a Ivorian international footballer who currently plays for French side Lens. Fulgini made his professional debut in the Ligue 1 in the 2006-07 season, starting in a 2-1 victory over AS Saint-Étienne.
He has since made over 150 appearances for Lens, scoring 19 goals. Fulgini represented his country at under-17, under-19 and under-20 level. Fulgini is a powerful and energetic midfielder, known for his eye for goal and accurate passing.
Fulgini is a versatile player, able to play in either central midfield or as a wide midfielder. Fulgini is a regular for the Ivory Coast national team, and has represented his country at both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.
Fulgini is a highly marketable player, having been compared to former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard.
Fulgini is a strong character, known for his leadership qualities and ability to get the best out of his team-mates.
40. Rémy Labeau
Career
- 2018–2021: Lens
- 2021: Lens II
- 2022: Lens
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 06:27, 30 December 2022 (UTC)
Rémy Labeau is a forward who currently plays for Lens. He was born on March 3rd, 2003 in Guadeloupe and is 1.88m tall. Labeau started his career with US Créteil in the French fourth division.
He made his professional debut in the Ligue 1 in the 2014–15 season, playing for Lille. He was loaned to Toulouse for the 2016–17 season.
He joined Lens permanently in the 2017–18 season. Labeau has represented France at U17, U19, and U21 level.
He made his senior international debut in March 2018. Labeau is a versatile forward who can play as a second striker or on the left wing.
Rémy Labeau is a French professional footballer who plays for French club Lens. He made his professional debut for Lens in the 2018–19 season.
2. Labeau has also represented the France under-16 and under-17 teams. 3. Labeau made his senior debut for Lens in the 2020–21 season.
41. Daniel Xuereb
RC Lens
Career
- 1977–1981: Lyon
- 1981–1986: Lens
- 1986–1989: Paris Saint-Germain
- 1989–1991: Montpellier
- 1991–1992: Marseille
- 1992–1993: Toulon
- 1981–1989: France
- 2008–2009: Aix
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Daniel Xuereb was born in Gardanne, France in 1959. He started his career with Lyon in 1977 and went on to play for the team for three seasons. Xuereb scored 23 goals in 95 appearances for Lyon.
Xuereb later played for Marseille and Lille before finishing his career with AS Nancy in 1985. Daniel Xuereb was a prolific striker who is best remembered for his time with Lyon. He later became a coach and worked with various clubs in France and abroad.
Daniel Xuereb passed away in 2018 at the age of 63. Daniel Xuereb is a retired Spanish professional footballer who played as a midfielder.
He represented Spain at youth level and made his senior international debut in 2001. Xuereb enjoyed a lengthy career in Europe, playing for Lens, Paris Saint-Germain, Montpellier, Marseille, and Toulon.
He announced his retirement from football in March 2009. In his later years, Xuereb worked as a football coach, most notably at Aix-en-Provence.
He is the father of Spanish international footballer Daniel Xuereb. Daniel Xuereb was born on January 10, 1973, in Madrid, Spain. He started his football career at hometown club Arenas Club de Getxo, where he made his senior debut in 1991.
After spending two seasons with Lens, he joined Paris Saint-Germain in 1994. He helped the French side win the Ligue 1 championship in 1996 and 1997.
Xuereb also won two Champions League titles with PSG, in 1998 and 2000. In 2001, he made his international debut for Spain. He went on to represent his country at the 2002 World Cup, the 2004 European Championship, and the 2006 World Cup.
After being released by PSG in 2006, Xuereb joined Marseille. He helped the French side win the Coupe de la Ligue in 2007 and the Ligue 1 championship in 2008.
He then joined Toulon in 2009. He retired from football later that year. In his later years, Xuereb worked as a football coach, most notably at Aix-en-Provence. Daniel Xuereb is married and has two children.
42. Adel Taarabt
S.L. Benfica
Career
- 2004–2006: Lens
- 2006–2007: Lens
- 2007: Tottenham Hotspur (loan)
- 2007–2010: Tottenham Hotspur
- 2009–2010: Queens Park Rangers (loan)
- 2010–2015: Queens Park Rangers
- 2013–2014: Fulham (loan)
- 2014: AC Milan (loan)
- 2015–2022: Benfica
- 2015–2019: Benfica B
- 2017–2018: Genoa (loan)
- 2022: Al-Nasr
- 2006: France U17
- 2008: France U19
- 2009: Morocco
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 20:25, 27 December 2022 (UTC), ‡ National team caps and goals, correct as of 1 June 2022
Adel Taarabt is a Moroccan international and former French youth international who currently plays for Al-Nasr in the UAE Pro-League. He spent time with Lens, then PSG, before moving to Benfica in Portugal in 2013.
Taarabt has had loan spells at AC Milan, QPR, Wigan Athletic and El-Eulma. He made his international debut for Morocco in 2009. Taarabt represented France at youth level before switching his allegiance to Morocco in 2013.
He played in the 2017 World Cup and the 2018 Africa Cup of Nations. Taarabt joined Al-Nasr on a four-year deal in July 2019. He is known for his attacking midfield play and has scored 18 goals in 147 appearances for Benfica.
Taarabt is a member of the Moroccan national team. Adel Taarabt is a Moroccan international who has played for France at various age levels.
He began his career at Tottenham Hotspur before joining Queens Park Rangers on a season-long loan in 2009.
He was loaned to Fulham in 2014, before joining AC Milan on a permanent deal in 2015. He rejoined Benfica in 2018, where he has made 79 appearances and scored two goals.
He is currently contracted to Benfica B. Taarabt has represented Morocco at international level on 30 occasions.
He is currently a member of Al-Nasr. Taarabt is a versatile midfielder who can play either as a forward or in the holding midfield role. He is likely to be a key player for Morocco at the 2022 World Cup.
43. Frédéric Déhu
RC Lens
Career
- 1991–1999: Lens
- 1999–2000: Barcelona
- 2000–2004: Paris Saint-Germain
- 2004–2006: Marseille
- 2006–2007: Levante
- 1998–2000: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Frédéric Déhu is a French professional footballer who plays as a centre back for Spanish club Valencia. Déhu began his career with hometown club Villeparisis, before moving to Lille in 1995.
He spent six seasons with Lille, helping the club to two Ligue 1 titles and two UEFA Champions League appearances.
Déhu moved to Valencia in 2003, helping the club to two La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey titles, and one UEFA Champions League appearance.
He later helped Valencia to the 2017–18 La Liga title. Déhu has also represented France at international level, playing 57 times and winning the 1998 World Cup and the 2003 Confederations Cup.
Déhu was born in Villeparisisis, and attended the local École Spéciale Militaire de Saint-Cyr.
He later played for Villeparisis and Lille, before moving to Valencia. Déhu has two daughters, with his partner, the Spanish former track and field athlete Amaya Díaz. Déhu is a devout Catholic and frequently donates money to charity.
Déhu is a UEFA ambassador and frequently attends events to support the development of young footballers.
Déhu was inducted into the French Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
44. Tony Vairelles
AS Nancy Lorraine
Career
- 1991–1995: Nancy
- 1995–1999: Lens
- 1999–2003: Lyon
- 2001: Bordeaux (loan)
- 2001–2002: Bastia (loan)
- 2003: Lens (loan)
- 2003–2004: Rennes
- 2004–2005: SC Bastia
- 2005–2006: Lierse
- 2006–2007: Tours
- 2007–2008: CA Bastia
- 2008–2009: Dudelange
- 2009–2011: Gueugnon
- 1998–2000: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Tony Vairelles was born in Nancy, France on 10 April 1973. He started his senior career with Nancy in 1995 and went on to play for Lens in 1999. Vairelles is most famous for his time with Lens where he helped the team win the Ligue 1 title in 2001.
Vairelles has also played for Auxerre, Bordeaux, Lorient, and Nice in his career. He retired from professional football in 2013 after playing for FC Nantes in the French second tier.
Vairelles currently works as a football agent. In 2017, he was named the president of the French football federation.
Vairelles has been married to his wife, Laure, since 2003. They have one child, a daughter, born in 2006. Tony Vairelles began his professional career with Lyon in 1999.
Vairelles went on to play for Bordeaux, Bastia, Lens, Rennes, and SC Bastia before transferring to Lierse in 2006. Vairelles then signed with Tours in 2007 and played for them until 2011.
Vairelles has represented France on numerous occasions, including at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. Vairelles is currently a free agent and is looking for a new club.
45. Alou Diarra
SC Bastia
Career
- 1987–1993: Aulnay-sous-Bois
- 1993–1997: Villepinte
- 1997–1999: Louhans-Cuiseaux
- 1999–2000: Louhans-Cuiseaux
- 2000–2002: Bayern Munich II
- 2000–2002: Bayern Munich
- 2002–2005: Liverpool
- 2002–2003: Le Havre (loan)
- 2003–2004: Bastia (loan)
- 2004–2005: Lens (loan)
- 2005–2006: Lens
- 2006–2007: Lyon
- 2007–2011: Bordeaux
- 2011–2012: Marseille
- 2012–2014: West Ham United
- 2013: Rennes (loan)
- 2015–2016: Charlton Athletic
- 2016–2017: Nancy
- 2001–2002: France U20
- 2002–2004: France U21
- 2004–2012: France
- 2018–2020: Lens (youth assistant)
- 2020–2022: Lens (assistant)
- 2022: Troyes U19
Alou Diarra is a French defensive midfielder who is currently playing for Troyes U19. Diarra first played for Aulnay-sous-Bois in 1987 before transferring to Villepinte in 1993.
Diarra made his senior debut for Bayern Munich II in 2000 before joining Bayern Munich in 2002. Diarra has also played for Bayern Munich and Louhans-Cuiseaux in his career.
Diarra is a member of the French national team and has represented his country at the UEFA Euro 2012.
Diarra is a hardworking midfielder who is known for his tackling and interceptions. Diarra is a versatile defender who can play in either midfield or defense.
Diarra is currently manager of Troyes U19. Diarra is a talented midfielder who is looking to continue his career in Europe.
Alou Diarra was born on December 16, 1987 in the city of Toulouse, in the south of France. He started his football career at the age of nine, with his local side US Orléans.
He made his professional debut with Toulouse FC in the 2007–2008 season. He was loaned to Ligue 1 side Marseille in the 2009–2010 season, and then made the move permanent the following season.
He was signed by West Ham United in the summer of 2012, and made his debut for the club in September 2012. He was loaned to English side Charlton Athletic in January 2014, and then joined Nancy in the summer of 2014.
He made his international debut for France in November 2001, and has since played 44 matches. He was part of the France team that won the World Cup in 2006.
He retired from professional football in May 2017, following a season with Nancy.
46. Samba Sow
Mali national football team
Career
- 2006–2008: Lens
- 2008–2013: Lens
- 2011–2012: Lens B
- 2013–2015: Kardemir Karabükspor
- 2015–2017: Kayserispor
- 2017–2019: Dynamo Moscow
- 2019–2021: Nottingham Forest
- 2021: Lens B
- 2009–2017: Mali
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 16:32, 26 May 2022 (UTC)
Sow played for Lens in the 2006-2008 youth seasons. In the 2008-2009 season, Sow moved to Dynamo Moscow. Sow made his debut for Dynamo Moscow in the 2010–2011 season.
In the 2016-2017 season, Sow played for Lens B. Sow is a defensive midfielder. Sow has played for the Mali national team. Sow is a member of the Mali national team. Sow has played for the Mali national team.
Sow is a defensive midfielder for Lens B. Samba Sow began his senior career with Lens in 2008. He moved to Turkish side, Kardemir Karabükspor, in 2011 and then to Kayserispor in 2013. He then signed for Russian side, Dynamo Moscow, in 2015 and spent two seasons with the club.
He returned to French side, Lens B, in 2017 and has since made 10 appearances. He has also represented Mali at international level on 36 occasions.
Samba Sow is a strong and physical midfielder who is known for his hard work in the middle of the park. He is a key player for Lens and is expected to play a big role in the club's future.
He is a popular figure among the fans and is highly respected for his professionalism. Samba Sow is a talented player and is sure to have a long and successful career in the footballing world.
47. Mamadou Camara
Career
- 1999–2008: Chamois Niortais
- 2008–2011: Chamois Niortais
- 2011–2013: Guingamp
- 2012–2013: Guingamp B
- 2013–2014: CA Bastia
- 2014–2015: Strasbourg
- 2015–2016: Fontenay
- 2016–2018: Boulogne
- 2018–2019: Lyon-Duchère
- 2019–2020: Bourg-en-Bresse
- 2020–2022: Le Puy
- 2022: ES La Rochelle
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 19:59, 4 June 2022 (UTC)
Mamadou Camara is a French footballer who currently plays for ES La Rochelle. Mamadou Camara started his career with Chamois Niortais before moving to ES La Rochelle.
Mamadou Camara has played for the French national team on a number of occasions. Mamadou Camara is a centre-back and is known for his speed and agility.
Mamadou Camara is a regular starter for ES La Rochelle and is considered to be one of the club's most important players.
Mamadou Camara is a fan favourite at ES La Rochelle and is highly respected by his team-mates.
Mamadou Camara is a hard-working player who is always willing to put in a shift for his team. Mamadou Camara is a committed player and is always willing to give his all for his team.
Mamadou Camara is a talented player who is capable of making a big impact on the pitch.
48. Georges Lech
RC Lens
Career
- 1962–1968: RC Lens
- 1968–1972: FC Sochaux-Montbéliard
- 1972–1976: Stade de Reims
- 1963–1973: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Georges Lech is a former French international striker who played for Sochaux-Montbéliard, Marseille, Olympique de Marseille and Paris Saint-Germain.
He is best known for his time with Marseille, where he helped the club win the Ligue 1 title in 1984 and the Coupe de France in 1985.
Lech also played for the France national team, earning 54 caps and scoring 20 goals. After retiring from football, Lech worked as a football coach and manager.
Lech was born in Billy-Montigny, France and died in Paris, France, aged 77. Georges Lech started his senior career at RC Lens before moving to FC Sochaux-Montbéliard.
Georges Lech represented France at international level for over a decade, scoring 35 goals in total. Georges Lech later played for Stade de Reims and Reims.
Georges Lech retired from professional football in 1996. Georges Lech is now a football coach, working with the under 18s at Sochaux.
Georges Lech is a highly respected figure in French football, and is often regarded as one of the best strikers of his era.
Georges Lech is a legend in the world of French football, and is still considered one of the best strikers to have played the game.
Georges Lech is a highly respected figure in French football, and is often regarded as one of the best strikers of his era.
Georges Lech is a legend in the world of French football, and is still considered one of the best strikers to have played the game.
49. Didier Six
France national football team
Career
- 1972–1977: Valenciennes
- 1977–1978: Lens
- 1978–1980: Marseille
- 1980: Cercle Brugge
- 1981: Strasbourg
- 1981–1983: VfB Stuttgart
- 1983–1984: Mulhouse
- 1984–1985: Aston Villa
- 1985–1986: Metz
- 1986: Strasbourg
- 1987: Valenciennes
- 1987–1988: Galatasaray
- 1988–1989: Stade Vallauris
- 1989–1990: ASPV Strasbourg
- 1990–1992: VfB Leipzig
- 1976–1984: France
- 1986–1987: Strasbourg (assistant)
- 1992–1993: Strasbourg B
- 1997–1998: Strasbourg Koenigshoffen
- 2004: Audun-le-Tiche [fr]
- 2011–2014: Togo
- 2015: Mauritius
- 2019–2021: Guinea
Didier Six is a former French professional footballer who played as a winger. Six played for several clubs in his career, including Valenciennes, Lens, Marseille, Cercle Brugge, Strasbourg and VfB Stuttgart.
He made his senior debut in 1972 and went on to play for Valenciennes, Lens, Marseille, Cercle Brugge, Strasbourg and VfB Stuttgart, making 154 appearances in total.
Six retired from playing in 1985. After retiring from playing, Six became a manager, coaching Mulhouse, Aston Villa and Metz.
He was appointed manager of Strasbourg in 2003, but was dismissed less than a year later. Six later worked as a pundit for French television.
He was inducted into the French Football Hall of Fame in 2013. Six has two children, a son and a daughter. Six was part of the France side that won the 1976 World Cup.
He later managed Strasbourg and after a successful tenure, he was appointed manager of Togo in 2015. He has also managed Mauritius and Guinea.
50. Eric Carrière
RC Lens
Career
- 1978–1981: US Villenave-d'Ornon
- 1981–1992: CS Auch
- 1992–1995: Muret
- 1995–1996: Nantes
- 1996–2001: Nantes
- 2001–2004: Lyon
- 2004–2008: Lens
- 2008–2010: Dijon
- 2001–2006: France
- *Club domestic league appearances and goals
Eric Carrière came through the youth ranks at French club CS Auch, before spells with US Villenave-d'Ornon and French side FC Auch. Carrière made his international debut for France in a 0–0 draw against Belgium in 1994.
He was part of the France side that reached the 1998 World Cup final, but was sent off in the semi-final against Brazil.
Carrière spent the majority of his career in France with Marseille, but also had spells with Lille, Paris Saint-Germain and Lyon.
He retired from football in 2018 after a spell with Spanish side Hercules.
Carrière was named in the France national team's squad for the 2010 World Cup, but did not feature in any of the tournament's matches. In July 2018, he announced his retirement from football.
Carrière has twice been named the French Footballer of the Year, in 2006 and 2007. He is the father of two children.
51. Maryan Wisnieski
RC Lens
Career
- 1953–1963: Lens
- 1963–1964: Sampdoria
- 1964–1966: Saint-Étienne
- 1966–1969: Sochaux
- 1969–1970: Grenoble
- 1955–1963: France
Wisniewski was born on 1 February 1937 in France. Wisniewski played for US Auchel in his youth before signing with Grenoble in 1960.
Wisniewski scored 219 goals in 476 appearances for Grenoble, helping the club to two Ligue 1 titles and a Coupe de France.
Wisniewski retired from football in 1971, but continued to play for local clubs until he was 85 years old. Wisniewski died on 3 March 2022 after a long illness.
He was 85 years old. Wisniewski was a prolific striker who is widely regarded as one of the best French players of all time.
Wisniewski is the father of footballing legend Zinedine Zidane. Wisniewski was inducted into the French Football Hall of Fame in 2003.
Wisniewski is a national hero in France, and his death was mourned by the country's footballing community.
Final Words
Racing Club de Lens is a French professional football club that has a long history and proud tradition.
The club has produced some of the greatest players in the world, including Zinedine Zidane, Raymond Kopa, Thierry Henry, Claude Makelele, and Patrick Vieira.
The best players in the club’s history include Zidane, Kopa, Henry, Vieira, Makelele, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
